MODEL 68077-1 owner’s manual
INTRODUCTION TABLE OF CONTENTS This manual contains the instructions you will need to operate and maintain your model so that you can enjoy it for years to come. We want you to feel confident that you own one of the best-performing models in the market and that it is backed by a team of professionals who aim to provide the highest level of factory support possible.
WH Y IT ’ S T H E U LT I M AT E The next-generation Slash 4X4 Ultimate represents Ready-To-Race® performance at the highest level. The Slash 4X4 Ultimate pushes the performance envelope; its new Low-CG chassis delivers superior handling and maximum corner speed and new 13mm bore GTR hard-anodized aluminum shocks provide consistent damping and smooth suspension action lap-after-lap.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS All instructions and precautions outlined in this manual should be strictly followed to ensure safe operation of your model. This model is not intended for use by children under 14 years of age without the supervision of a responsible and knowledgeable adult. Gearing and battery choice (see LiPo Batteries, right) affect the skill level of the model. See chart below. Gearing: Battery: Voltage*: mAh: Stock Pinion 7-Cell NiMH 8.4V 3000+mAh Gearing: Battery: Voltage*: mAh: Opt.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS LiPo Batteries Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries are becoming popular for use in R/C models due to their compact size, high energy density, and high-current output. However, these types of batteries require special care and handling procedures for long life and safe operation. WARNING: LiPo batteries are intended only for advanced users that are educated on the risks associated with LiPo battery use.
ANATOMY OF THE SLASH 4X4 ULTIMATE Battery Compartment Half Shaft Turnbuckle (Rear Camber Link) Front Body Mount Battery Hold-Down Rear Hub Carrier Battery Front Suspension Arm Rear Body Mount Rear Sway Bar Front Sway Bar Traxxas High-Current Connector Rear Bumper Chassis Steering Block (Axle Carrier) Caster Block (C-Hub) Front Shock Tower Front Bumper Drive Shaft Rear Shock Tower Rear Suspension Arm Motor (Velineon 3500) Slipper Clutch Electronic Speed Control (VXL-3s) RPM Sensor Wire Nerf
TOOLS, SUPPLIES, AND REQUIRED EQUIPMENT Your model comes with a set of specialty metric tools. You’ll need to purchase other items, available from your hobby dealer, to operate and maintain your model. Supplied Tools and Equipment 2.5mm “L” wrench 2.0mm “L” wrench 1.
QUICK START: GETTING UP TO SPEED The Quick Start Guide is not intended to replace the full operating instructions available in this manual. Please read this entire manual for complete instructions on the proper use and maintenance of your model. The following guide is an overview of the procedures for getting your model running. Look for the Quick Start logo on the bottom corners of Quick Start pages. 1.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM INTRODUCTION Your model includes the latest Traxxas TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with Traxxas Link™ Model Memory. The transmitter’s easy-to-use design provides instant driving fun for new R/C enthusiasts, and also offers a full compliment of pro-level tuning features for advanced users – or anyone interested in experimenting with the performance of their model. The steering and throttle channels feature adjustable Exponential, End Points, and Sub-Trims.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM To prevent loss of radio range do not kink or cut the black wire, do not bend or cut the metal tip, and do not bend or cut the white wire at the end of the metal tip. NiMH - Abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. Rechargeable NiMH batteries offer high current handling and much greater resistance to the “memory” effect. NiMH batteries generally allow higher capacity than NiCad batteries. They can last up to 500 charge cycles.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM Your model is equipped with the newest TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with Traxxas Link™ Model Memory. The transmitter has two channels for controlling your throttle and steering. The receiver inside the model has 5 output channels. Your model is equipped with one servo and an electronic speed control.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM The included charger is designed for use only with Traxxas NiMH batteries with iD. Legacy Traxxas High-Current Connectors are not compatible with this charger. DO NOT try to force legacy connectors into the charge connector. If the status LED doesn’t light green, check the polarity of the batteries. If you see any other flashing signal from the LED, refer to the chart on page 33 to identify the code. Use the Right Batteries Your transmitter uses AA batteries.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM INSTALLING THE BATTERY PACK Install the battery pack with the battery wires facing the rear of the model. Insert the tabs of the battery hold-down into the slots in the rear hold-down retainer (A). Swing the battery hold down towards the chassis and snap (lock) the end into the front hold-down retainer (B). Using a Different Battery Configuration The battery hold-down is capable of accommodating either side-by-side racing style packs or the more common stick packs.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM RADIO SYSTEM CONTROLS Remember, always turn the TQi transmitter on first and off last to avoid damage to your model. • In order for the transmitter and receiver to bind to one another, the receiver in the model must be turned on within 20 seconds of turning on the transmitter. The transmitter LED will flash fast red, indicating a failure to link. If you miss it, simply turn off the transmitter and start over.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM USING THE RADIO SYSTEM The TQi Radio System has been pre-adjusted at the factory. The adjustment should be checked before running the model, in case of movement during shipping. Here’s how: Range-Testing the Radio System Before each running session with your model, you should range-test your radio system to ensure that it operates properly. 1. Turn the transmitter switch on. The status LED on the transmitter should be solid green (not flashing). 1.
TRAXXAS TQi RADIO & VELINEON POWER SYSTEM To prevent loss of radio range do not kink or cut the black wire, do not bend or cut the metal tip, and do not bend or cut the white wire at the end of the metal tip. Correct No No No 2. Press and hold the receiver’s LINK button as you switch on the speed control by pressing the EZ-Set button. 3. When the transmitter and receiver’s LEDs turn solid green, the system is bound and ready for use.
ADJUSTING THE ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL VXL-3s Battery Settings (Low-Voltage Detection Setting) The Velineon VXL-3s electronic speed control is equipped with built-in Low-Voltage Detection. The Low-Voltage Detection circuitry constantly monitors the battery voltage. When the battery voltage begins to reach the minimum recommended discharge voltage threshold for LiPo battery packs, the VXL-3s will limit the power output to 50% throttle.
ADJUSTING THE ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL Patented Training Mode (Profile #3) reduces forward and reverse throttle by 50%. Training Mode is provided to reduce the power output, allowing beginning drivers to better control the model. As driving skills improve, simply change to Sport or Race Mode for full-power operation. Tip For Fast Mode Changes The VXL-3s is set to Profile 1 (Sport Mode) as the default.
DRIVING YOUR MODEL Now it’s time to have some fun! This section contains instructions on driving and making adjustments to your model. Before you go on, here are some important precautions to keep in mind. • Allow the model to cool for a few minutes between runs. This is particularly important when using high capacity battery packs that allow extended periods of running. Monitoring temperatures will extend the lives of the batteries and motors.
DRIVING YOUR MODEL RUNNING IN WET CONDITIONS Your new Traxxas model is designed with water-resistant features to protect the electronics in the model (receiver, servos, electronic speed control). This gives you the freedom to have fun driving your model through puddles, wet grass, snow, and through other wet conditions. Though highly water resistant, the model should not be treated as though it is submersible or totally 100% waterproof. Water resistance applies only to the installed electronic components.
DRIVING YOUR MODEL 7. Let the truck stand or you may blow it off with compressed air. Placing the truck in a warm, sunny spot will aid drying. Trapped water and oil will continue to drip from the truck for a few hours. Place it on a towel or piece of cardboard to protect the surface underneath. 8. As a precautionary step, remove the sealed receiver box cover. While unlikely, humidity or tiny amounts of moisture or condensation may enter the receiver box during wet running.
BASIC TUNING ADJUSTMENTS All of the toe links are installed on the truck so the left-hand thread indicators point to the same direction. This makes it easier to remember which way to turn the wrench to increase or decrease toe link length (the direction is same at all four corners). Note that the groove in the hex indicates the side of the toe link with the left-hand threads. Once you become familiar with driving your model, you might need to make adjustments for better driving performance.
BASIC TUNING ADJUSTMENTS Slash 4x4 Ultimate also includes the plastic rear stub axle carriers as used on the standard Slash 4X4 Ultimate, which offer 2.5° of toe-in. They can be installed on either side of the truck, as they are not left/ right specific. In general, increasing toe-in improves stability, while reducing toe-in may help “loosen up” the truck’s handling to improve corner speed, especially on high-grip tracks. Experiment to see what works best for your track and driving style.
MAINTAINING YOUR MODEL Always wear eye protection when using compressed air or spray cleaners and lubricants. High-performance vehicles generate small vibrations while driving. These vibrations may loosen hardware over time and require attention. Always check your wheel nuts and other hardware and tighten or replace when necessary. Your model requires timely maintenance in order to stay in top running condition. The following procedures should be taken very seriously.
maintaining your model Suspension and slipper clutch assembly removal The Slash 4X4 Ultimate was designed with ease of disassembly in mind. The entire front and rear suspension assemblies can be removed from the chassis fully intact with the removal of only a few screws. Refer to the exploded views included in the Slash 4X4 Ultimate Service and Support Guide for complete assembly diagrams. • Removing the front suspension module 1.
ADVANCED TUNING ADJUSTMENTS Gearing Compatibility Chart: The chart below shows recommended gear combination ranges for your model. Pinion Gear Spur Gear 50 52 54 9 - - 17.08 10 - - 15.37 11 - 13.45 13.97 12 - 12.33 12.81 13 10.95 11.38 11.82 14 10.16 10.57 10.98 15 9.49 9.87 10.25 16 8.89 9.25 9.61 17 8.37 8.71 9.04 18 7.91 8.22 8.54 19 7.49 7.79 8.09 20 7.12 7.40 7.68 21 6.78 7.05 7.32 22 6.47 6.73 - 23 6.19 6.
ADVANCED TUNING ADJUSTMENTS GEARING LIPO BATTERIES One of the more significant advantages to your model’s transmission is the extremely wide range of available gear ratios. Changing the gearing allows you to fine tune the speed of the model and control the temperatures of the battery pack and motor. Use a lower gear ratio (numerically larger) to reduce current draw and temperatures. Use a higher gear (numerically lower) to increase top speed.
ADVANCED TUNING ADJUSTMENTS TUNING THE SEALED GEAR DIFFERENTIALS Front Differential Removal The action of the Slash 4X4 Ultimate’s front and rear gear differentials can be tuned for different driving conditions and performance requirements, without major disassembly or removal of the suspension system. From the factory, the differentials are sealed to maintain consistent long-term performance.
ADVANCED TUNING ADJUSTMENTS 5. Slide the bumper assembly off of the chassis. 6. Remove the tie bar from the chassis. 7. Remove the two 3x15mm button-head screws from the differential cover. Do not remove the two screws that secure the shock tower. 8. Remove the differential cover and slide the differential out of the front of the case. 9. To reinstall the differential, reverse the steps. Refilling the differentials: 1. Remove the four 2.
ADVANCED TUNING ADJUSTMENTS Optional shock springs available from Traxxas. Refer to your parts list for a complete part number listing. Higher rate springs are stiffer. Springs can be identified by dots of color on one end. Shock Piston Sizes 1.5 1.6 1.5mm Front 1.6mm Rear Replacing Shock Oil For easier service, the shocks should be removed from the vehicle and disassembled to change the oil. 1. Remove the lower spring retainer and shock spring. 2.
ADVANCED TUNING ADJUSTMENTS SWAY BAR SETTINGS AND ADJUSTMENTS • Adjust the sway bar links so the sway bars are level (parallel to the ground) when the truck is on the ground and the suspension is at rest (normal ride height). This allows equal sway bar travel in both unloaded and loaded suspension conditions. Always adjust the left and right sway bar links equally to prevent suspension tweak.
TQi ADVANCED TUNING GUIDE The model’s TQi transmitter is equipped with the Traxxas Link Wireless Module. This innovative accessory transforms your iPhone®, iPad®, or iPod touch® into a powerful tuning tool that equips your TQi with an intuitive, high-definition, full-color graphical user interface. Traxxas Link The powerful Traxxas Link app (available in the Apple App Store) gives you complete control over the operation and tuning of your Traxxas model with stunning visuals and absolute precision.
TQi ADVANCED TUNING GUIDE Available Tuning Adjustments The following items can be adjusted most easily using your mobile device and the Traxxas Link application. All the features described below may also be accessed using the MENU and SET buttons on the transmitter and observing signals from the LED. An explanation of the menu structure follows on page 35.
TQi ADVANCED TUNING GUIDE prevent binding caused by the servo moving steering or throttle linkages (in the case of a nitro car) farther than their mechanical limits. The end point adjustment settings you select will represent what you wish to be the servo’s maximum travel; the Steering Percentage or Braking Percentage functions will not override the End Point settings.
TQi ADVANCED TUNING GUIDE Press MENU to move through options. Press SET to select an option. MENU TREE The menu tree below shows how to navigate through the TQi transmitter’s various settings and functions. Press and hold MENU to enter the menu tree, and use the following commands to navigate through the menu and select options. MENU: When you enter a menu, you always start at the top. Press MENU to move down the menu tree.
TQi ADVANCED TUNING GUIDE x8 Set Multi-Function knob for STEERING SENSITIVITY (Expo) Press/hold MENU green LED blinks Press SET red LED blinks Press SET to confirm green LED blinks (x8) Set Multi-Function knob for THROTTLE SENSITIVITY (Expo) Press/hold MENU green LED blinks Press SET red LED blinks Press MENU to confirm red LED blinks (x2) x2 x3 MENU TREE FORMULAS Press/hold MENU returns to driving mode To select functions and make adjustments to the TQi transmitter without referencing the menu
2 3 4 5 A B C X X 30 front shocks Negative 1.5 ° 4 X Top Bottom Off-Road Tire Insert_ SCT _______________ X weight / balance Silver X (Flush) ______mm 0 Rear Black Stock Slash Wheel_ __________________ Softer Off-Road Tire Insert_ SCT _______________ sway bars Black 1 S Stiffer Compound Tire Type_________________ Rear Battery Placement: Front X Rear X X 3 X Negative 1.5 ° Top Bottom 6 4° (Blue as labeled) 1° (Blue reversed) 2.5° (Black plastic) 1.
BOTTOM 2 3 4 5 Flat Up ° Top Bottom 4° (Blue as labeled) 1° (Blue reversed) 2.5° (Black plastic) toe angle Negative Piston _____________mm Silver Battery Placement: Front Rear Weight Bias: Front _____% Rear _____% Weight: _______lbs.
NOTES
owner’s manual 6200 TRAXXAS WAY, McKINNEY, TEXAS 75070 1-888-TRAXXAS 150114 68077-1-OM-EN-R00
